There are some events in this world that are bigger than Monday meetings and KPIs.

Ukraine is under siege. More than 500,000 Ukrainian people—the population of Saskatoon and Regina combined—have fled to other countries. Others are hiding in bunkers and basements. It’s hard to conceive that early last week, those same people were attending school, playing soccer, and picking up a coffee on their way to the office.

This is a situation that hits close to home for many Vendastians. More than 15 percent of Saskatchewan’s population can trace their heritage back to Ukraine. For some people among us (both in our headquarter province and beyond), this war is directly affecting family and friends.

Vendasta stands with the people of Ukraine and denounces the actions of Russian President Vladimir Putin. We have a part to play in supporting an otherwise peaceful and democratic country. After all, Vendasta exists to support local businesses around the world. The ability to own and operate a local business without the violence of war or political interference are privileges that people in Ukraine are robbed of today.

We've made a donation to support the Canadian Red Cross’s Ukraine Humanitarian Crisis Appeal. We encourage Vendastians to donate to that cause or others and have compiled a list of options below. Your donations to Canadian charities benefiting Ukraine will be matched up to $100 (here’s the form).

On Thursday, please consider wearing yellow and blue in support of peace in Ukraine. 

Слава Україні.